SHARED SERVICE
All praise to God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. God is our merciful Father and the source of all comfort. He comforts us in all our troubles so that we can comfort others. When they are troubled, we will be able to give them the same comfort God has given us.
2 Corinthians 1:3-4 (NLT)
The journey we've shared as a couple offers us unique opportunities to serve God by sharing our experiences and insights with others. Ministering together as a couple is incredibly fruitful and life-giving. But many couples don't take the time to reflect and find where God truly wants to use their lives and stories for His glory.
Marriage itself is a testimony to God's love. Faithful love between a husband and wife is meant to mirror Christ's love for the church and our humble submission to His rule. What a unique opportunity we have to show this love to the world.
If I could challenge couples with one thing, it would be to find an area where you can serve God's purposes together. This will give you chances to pray, laugh, sacrifice and love others together. There are few things that build emotional intimacy like shared ministry.
APPLICATION: Talk with your spouse and identify one area of the church where you could serve as a couple. Reach out to those ministry leaders and get involved today. If you are already serving together, take a moment to reflect on how God has moved in your ministry.
PRAYER: God, thank You for dreaming up marriage as a way to show Your love to the world. Please help us as a couple not to take our assignment lightly. Reveal ways that You have uniquely positioned us to participate in Your work at Brookwood. We love You! Amen.
“… Our Father in heaven…” Matthew 6:9b (NLT)
- What do You want to say to me today as my Father?
“… may Your name be kept holy.” Matthew 6:9c (NLT)
- What do You want to reveal to me about Your power today?
“May Your Kingdom come soon.” Matthew 6:10a (NLT)
- Help me make Your priorities my priorities today.
“Give us today the food we need,” Matthew 6:11 (NLT)
- Is there anything specific You want me to do with my time or the people I’m around today?
“and forgive us our sins, as we have forgiven those who sin against us” Matthew 6:12 (NLT)
- Reveal to me anyone I need to forgive or ask for forgiveness.
“And don’t let us yield to temptation…” Matthew 6:13a (NLT)
- Is there anywhere I’m vulnerable to temptation?